Greetings friends!
 
There’s been so much excitement about the Christmas Star, the great conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn that was visible on the winter solstice. (It’s still visible, though not as bright.) Christians especially are overcome with wonderment. There is speculation that perhaps a planetary event of this nature created the Star of Bethlehem.
 
In San Francisco, looking southwest through the back windows, Fly and I could clearly see the conjunction. Around the world it was a celestial jackpot for stargazers, a cosmic Do-si-do, if you will. Indeed, this phenomenon has been truly awesome – fascinating astronomically and historically.
 

 
But there’s more. In this era of darkness, as the pandemic ravages on, and grief and fear permeate our lives, the planetary conjunction has united us. In unison, people from every corner of the earth stood under the stars and looked up. All of us captivated by something so much greater than ourselves; a magnificence powerful enough to transcend all that stands between us -- borders, politics, religion, etc.
 
With so many of us cut off from our families and in despair, the Christmas Star is exactly what we needed. Really, it doesn’t matter much if an alignment of this nature hasn’t happened in 800 years, or if the conjunction explains the star of Bethlehem. What matters is what it means for us today.  
 

 
 
And right now, shining in the darkness, this light is binding friends and foe together; a true light that enlightens everyone.
 
Of course, the darkness is still with us, for now. But the darkness will not overcome the light. May the gift of this rare bright light on the longest nights of the year, remind us that Jesus will soon be born among us and bring hope and joy to the world.
 
Merry Christmas!

Deacon Jac
deacon@saintjohnsf.org

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Under the current restrictions we cannot perform baptisms, large funerals, or last rites in person. Larger gatherings have to be postponed until after the shelter-in-place restrictions are lifted and sick "visits" and last rites are performed on-line or by telephone.  

We are available if you are ill, need pastoral care, or any kind of practical help such as food or rides, please contact the parish administrator and someone from the pastoral care team will be in touch.

We are fortunate enough to have funds available for our parishioners in need.  This money is for use in providing direct services to people. If you need help with food, rent, or medical expenses, please do not be shy! Let us know. Your request and the assistance you receive will be confidential.